Pulau Tioman:Kuala Lumpur: The Malaysia Scuba Diving Association (MSDA) has called for decisive measures following two diving-related fatalities in Pulau Tioman within a month. The association emphasized the need to potentially halt operations of dive operators if significant breaches in safety protocols, licensing rules, or negligence are discovered.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, MSDA president Aminor Azmi Abdul Latip highlighted the urgency of the situation after the recent death of a 55-year-old Afghan man, Mohammed Seyar Musazay, during an introductory scuba-diving activity near Kampung Salang. This incident occurred shortly after another foreign tourist died following a diving activity at the same location on September 12.
MSDA is urging authorities to prioritize the safety and well-being of divers, stressing that commercial interests should never overshadow safety requirements. The association has called on the police, the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture (MOTAC), the Tioman Development Authority (TDA), and other relevant bodies to conduct a thorough investigation into the recent incidents.
The investigation should assess the dive center's operating licenses, instructor qualifications, and certifications, including the current status of annual renewals and Emergency First Response (EFR) certifications. Additionally, it should evaluate supervision ratios, staffing levels, equipment conditions, operating procedures, and compliance with safety protocols at the incident scene.
Aminor Azmi pointed out that Malaysia has established itself as a premier diving and marine tourism destination. He urged all stakeholders, including regulators, operators, and the wider diving community, to uphold high standards of safety and professionalism to prevent further incidents that could undermine public confidence in Malaysia's diving safety standards.
MSDA remains committed to collaborating with authorities and industry stakeholders to ensure safe, responsible, and sustainable diving practices, maintaining Malaysia's reputation as a trusted diving destination.